Every horse, whether mare or gelding, deserves to feel comfortable in its own skin. But sometimes small signs of discomfort creep in that we, as attentive horse owners, shouldn't overlook.
A common cause? Muscle tension in horses. This can dampen the joie de vivre and activity of our beloved four-legged friends.
But what triggers these tensions and how can we best support our loved ones?
Join us in this guide to horse health, where we will take a closer look at the causes and solutions for tension in horses.
All causes of tension in horses at a glance
Tension in horses can have many causes. Some are obvious, others less so.
But they all influence the well-being and performance of our horses.
Let’s take a closer look at the most common causes:
Beware of incorrect equipment: It can promote muscle tension
A poorly fitting saddle or improperly adjusted bridle can quickly become the main cause of muscle tension . They pinch, rub, and prevent the horse from moving comfortably and freely.
Over time, such equipment errors can lead to chronic tension and pain , as the horse can become tense due to the constant discomfort while being ridden .
Poorly fitting equipment can often make training a torture for the horse.
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Try it now!Genetic factors & malformations
Not all causes of tension are external. Genetic factors and congenital malformations can also play a role .
Some horses simply have a predisposition to muscle problems and are more susceptible from birth.
It is therefore essential to be aware of these genetic peculiarities and to take targeted measures for prevention and treatment.
Nutrient and vitamin deficiency as a cause
A balanced diet is essential for a horse's health . However, a lack of important nutrients and vitamins can quickly lead to muscle tension.
which are essential for healthy muscles.
Magnesium, manganese, selenium and vitamin E are just some of the essential nutrients, additional causes of tension in horses
+ Stress and anxiety: Horses are sensitive animals. If they feel stressed or anxious, this can lead to tension . It's important to identify the causes of these feelings and counteract them.
+ Overload: Training that is too intensive or working too long without sufficient recovery periods can overtax the muscles and lead to tension.
It is important to adapt the training to the individual needs of the horse.
Symptoms & first signs
If a horse no longer gallops across the paddock as cheerfully or suddenly shows resistance when ridden, muscle tension could be the cause.
A horse with back pain often shows a changed posture or unusual movement patterns .
You may notice muscle tightness in your horse's neck or signs of abdominal tension.
If the horse holds the shoulder tense, this can also be an indication of discomfort.
Here’s what you should pay attention to with your horse:
- Changed gait or stiffness when walking
- Resistance or discomfort when grooming or saddling
- Noticeable sweating or trembling in certain muscle areas
- Avoiding certain movements or postures
- Changes in behavior or interaction with other horses or people
It is important to recognize these symptoms early in order to provide the horse with the best possible care and treatment.
Treatment: What really helps against tension in horses?
When it comes to treating muscle tension in horses, there are different approaches.
Loosening the horse's neck muscles or treating back pain in horses often requires a combination of targeted training, holistic therapy and, if necessary, supporting supplementary feed .
Helpful occupational therapy for tense horses: The best exercises
Occupational therapy for horses is a wonderful method to treat tension and promote the general well-being of the animal.
It combines various techniques and exercises specifically aimed at loosening the muscles, improving mobility, and making the horse more balanced and harmonious overall.
It is a gentle but effective approach that supports the horse not only physically but also mentally.
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Stretching exercises: Gently stretching and bending the neck or legs can help relieve tension. These exercises help increase flexibility and promote circulation in the affected areas.
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Groundwork: Targeted exercises on the lunge line or in the round pen can help the horse move better and avoid tension. Training without the weight of a rider allows the horse to regain its natural range of motion.
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Balance exercises: Using rockers or balance pads, the horse can train its deep core muscles. These exercises strengthen the core muscles and help improve balance and coordination.
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Massage: A gentle massage can help relieve tension and promote circulation. There are techniques and tools specifically designed for massaging horses.
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Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique can help release energy blockages and promote the horse's overall well-being. However, it should be performed by a trained professional.
How can you relieve tension in a horse through optimal training?
Targeted and balanced training is the key to preventing and relieving muscle tension in horses.
Through regular exercise and special exercises, the horse can strengthen its muscles and at the same time relieve tension.
It is important to increase training slowly and to allow the horse sufficient recovery periods .
Working with an experienced trainer can help create an individualized training program that meets the horse's needs and abilities.
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Try it now!Conclusion
The well-being of our four-legged friends is always a top priority for every horse owner. However, muscle tension can affect a horse's happiness and performance.
But with the right knowledge and the right tools, it is possible to relieve tension or, in the best case, prevent it from occurring in the first place.
With the right care and attention, you can help your horse appear full of energy and joy every day.
FAQ
What happens if tension in horses is not treated?
If tension in horses is not treated, it can lead to chronic pain, restricted movement, and even behavioral changes.
The horse may have difficulty walking, be less active, or even become aggressive. In the long term, untreated tension can also lead to other health problems as the horse tries to compensate for the pain.
Do massages help with muscle tension in horses?
Yes, massages can be very helpful for horses with tension. They promote blood circulation, help relieve muscle tension, and can improve the horse's overall well-being.
There are special massage devices for horses that have been developed to specifically treat tension and relax the muscles.
However, it is important that massages are performed by a trained person or veterinary physiotherapist to ensure they are effective and safe.
IMPORTANT:
Pferdegold is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment . The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only and is intended to help improve your horse's well-being.
Pferdegold products do not treat or cure diseases , but rather support your horse in correcting nutritional deficiencies through targeted nutrient intake. However, they are not a substitute for professional advice from a veterinarian or specialist.
If your horse has any health problems, we strongly recommend consulting a veterinarian . Pferdegold assumes no liability for decisions made based on the information provided here.
